June 15, 2004

WASHINGTON -- Congressman Tom Petri reports that the Westfield Fire Department has received a $34,067 grant from the U.S. Department of Homeland Security. The funds will be used to purchase "turnout gear" - protective clothing including helmets, hoods, jackets, pants and boots.

"It was a dire need of the Westfield Fire Department," Petri said.

The Assistance to Firefighters Grant program awards one-year grants directly to local fire departments, enhancing their abilities to respond to fire and fire-related hazards in their communities.

"We used to expect fire departments to simply put out fires, but now we expect them to carry out fire prevention and safety programs and provide emergency medical services," said Petri. "These grants are meant to help local communities cope with the added expenses in order to keep us all safer."